CV 3 — Zhōng Jí (中极) — Central Pole
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1. Overview
CV 3 — Zhōng Jí (中极) — is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) meridian. Its English name, Central Pole, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is one of the most clinically important points in acupuncture practice and is used regularly in the treatment of a range of conditions.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience. I use CV 3 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
On the anterior midline, 4 cun below the umbilicus.
3. Actions
- Front-Mu point of the Bladder
- Benefits the Bladder and promotes urination
- Regulates the uterus and the Ren Mai
- Resolves Damp-Heat from the Lower Jiao
4. Indications
- Urinary tract infections and painful urination
- Urinary incontinence and frequency
- Irregular menstruation and dysmenorrhoea
- Leucorrhoea and vaginal discharge
- Infertility and uterine cold
- Prolapse of the uterus
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 0.8–1.2 cun. Requires a full urinary bladder to be voided before needling. Avoid during pregnancy.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
CV 3 is the Front-Mu (Alarm) point of the Bladder and a meeting point of the Ren Mai with the three Yin meridians of the leg (SP, KD, LV). This intersection gives it broad gynaecological and urological applications. Combined with SP 6, SP 9 and BL 23 it forms the core prescription for urinary tract infections. In fertility practice it is used for uterine cold, implantation support and all conditions of the Lower Jiao requiring Ren Mai regulation.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use CV 3 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Urinary tract infections, Fertility, Thin endometrial lining, Irregular menstrual cycle. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.
